Immune defences of the mammary gland in dairy ruminants

The mammary gland (MG) of ruminants is essential for assuring the immune protection and nutrition of the suckling youngs. The domestication of these species aimed at increasing milk production for human consumption enhanced udder susceptibility to infections and in this context, a better understanding of the MG immune defences has become a cornerstone for the success of dairy farming. In this review, we explore constitutive and inducible immune mechanisms of the mammary gland and briefly discuss the knowledge gaps that remain to be elucidated for the implementation of strategies focused on boosting mammary immune responses.

Automated summary

The mammary gland in ruminants plays a crucial role in providing immune protection and nutrition to suckling youngs. This review explores the innate and inducible immune mechanisms of the mammary gland and discusses the remaining knowledge gaps needed for strategies to enhance mammary immune responses.